Chiropractic . . . Good for Mom and Baby!
Chiropractic is widely known to be an effective treatment for general back pain, but did you know it is also beneficial for pregnant women? The mother’s body undergoes a myriad of changes during pregnancy to accommodate the growing baby and to prepare for giving birth. During pregnancy, it is even more vital than usual for the woman’s nervous system to be functioning properly to optimize the body most effectively.
The sudden growth of the belly changes the woman’s posture. As the pelvis softens and spreads to accommodate the baby, it can become out of alignment. In some cases, this can affect the baby’s position making delivery more difficult or even lead to a c-section.
These are just a few of the reasons that women often have pain during pregnancy. But pregnant women shouldn’t suffer needlessly! Chiropractic care can help minimize and even alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with pregnancy. Some of the benefits of prenatal chiropractic care include:
- Healthier pregnancy
- Reduced nausea
- Relief of back, neck and joint pain without medication
- Lower risk of cesarean delivery
- Reduced time of labor and delivery
- Overall improved comfort during pregnancy
- Reduced risk of breech delivery
Chiropractic care is safe throughout pregnancy. All chiropractors have been trained to treat pregnant women through the various stages of pregnancy. Techniques are modified as needed to provide the best results while keeping mom and baby safe and comfortable. Some chiropractors have taken additional training and received special certifications that relate to infertility and prenatal chiropractic care. The International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) has designations to include:
- DACCP – Diplomate with ICPA reflecting highest level of advanced training
- CACCP – Certified with the ICPA reflecting advanced training
- Member of ICPA reflecting special interest
- Webster Certified – trained to work specifically with pelvic balance in pregnancy
What is the Webster Technique?
Founder of the ICPA, Larry Webster, DC, developed a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment for pregnant women. It helps establish balance in the mother’s pelvis and reduces stress to her uterus and the supporting ligaments. Studies have shown this to allow for optimal positioning of the baby. Most babies begin to turn head down by around 37 weeks of gestation. However, in approximately 4% of pregnancies, the baby stays in the breech position. In these cases, the Webster Technique has an 82% success rate of babies turning vertex.
The ICPA recommends prenatal chiropractic care throughout pregnancy to “establish pelvic balance and optimize the room a baby has for development throughout pregnancy.” This gives the best chance for the baby to get into proper position naturally and can thereby avoid the risks and concerns of a breech position completely. Proper position of the baby also reduces risk of dystocia (difficult labor) and therefore makes a safer, easier delivery more likely for both the mother and baby.
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor of chiropractic about how they can help you to have a healthy pregnancy with lower complications. A combination of proper exercise, stretches and chiropractic care can help you enjoy the anticipation of your new baby without some of the concerns and pains often associated with pregnancy.
Watch this 2 minute video on the benefits of chiropractic care for all ages: https://www.tnchiro.com/videos/chiropractic-care-health-benefits-for-all-ages/